Katelyn Farrell 

 

During my first placement at the Extra-Mural program, that team was the true definition of what collaboration looks like in a community health care setting. The team within the program encompasses the client’s physician, registered nurses, physiotherapists, respiratory therapists, occupational therapists, speech language pathologists, dieticians, social workers, licensed practical nurses, rehabilitation assistants and administrators as well as managers. It was amazing to see how all of the health care professionals opinions were shared and respected within the team when discussing client’s health care needs and goals. At times, different health care professionals who would have the same client on their case load, would coordinate their services to the client to best facilitate their interventions. What was truly inspiring to see was when the health care professionals would all come together once a week to discuss clients on the case load who were receiving palliative care. During these meetings, each professional would discuss what interventions have been taking place and the change in their health status. I realized quickly how important it was to come together as one unit with different expert opinions, to discuss clients at end-of-life to ensure that everyone was on the same page and that questions and concerns were discussed. This ensured that the client remained comfortable and their wishes respected while remaining in their own homes.

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Throughout this program, we have been learning and discussing among learning teams of 7 individuals. Due to this unique experience, I grew to gain an appreciation for respecting each individuals past experiences, undergrad degrees, and interests. By bringing all of the skills and knowledge base together, allowed us to learn from one another, appreciate each others differences in opinions, as well as learning how to rely and count on one another. Being in a learning team has prepared me for my future working team relationships that I will be involved with.

 

 

 

 

 

I always imagined myself working within an interdisciplinary team because of the holistic approach that can be provided to the clients when all professionals come together to support the client’s needs and goals. Something that I have noticed to be a difficulty among team dynamics is being able to manage conflicts. With differing opinions comes disconnect and assumptions, which can lead to the client’s needs being placed on the back burner instead of having them as the focus. This is something that I need to personally address as well, knowing when and how to provide feedback and how to receive it as well. I believe that through being able to give and receive effective feedback and respecting each other’s expertise, will be beneficial for me moving into an environment that is team based in the future.